Potential vs. Achievement.

Potential vs. Achievement.

Which is better? I guessed wrong. Turns out that in many cases, people often prefer promising outcomes over solid accomplishments, according to Stanford Marketing Professor Zakary Tormala, the author of a newly released study.

For example, this seems to be the case, notes Tormala, for coaches in hiring sports players as well as for audiences choosing stand-up comedians. But it's not true for voters evaluating politicians or consumers buying products.

You can see the article by clicking here:  New Stanford study

For a taste, here a quick excerpt:

We found that even seemingly minor word choices made a difference. Participants in one study evaluated a job applicant more favorably when he had performed well on a test called the “Assessment of Leadership Potential” rather than one called the “Assessment of Leadership Achievement.” So someone who scores well on a Scholastic Aptitude Test might be perceived as a stronger candidate than someone who scores well on a Scholastic Achievement Test. A subtle shift in word choice can have a big impact on interest and engagement.

And in keeping with the findings, we'll say that this article has the potential to unlock new ideas that you can put into practice in your organization.

Thank you CVOEO.

You're not a rock. 
You're not an island.

None of us are. That's why organizations like CVOEO are so important.

We need the strength of a community to help those in their time of need. Thank you CVOEO for providing emergency help. Thank you for the life-saving heating assistance, food banks, safe-havens from domestic violence, support for victimized tenants or budding entrepreneurs who need financial training, and so many other critical services.

Thank you as well for engaging in reflection and thinking long-term.

 

 (With apologies to S&G.)

Executive Coaching.

Personal trainer at the gym? 

You bet. But corporate coach? No thanks, say most CEOs. But a significant number of them are taking advantage of skills-honing.  

See this research from Stanford University published in the Harvard Review for an insider's look.

Research: What CEOs Really Want from Coaching

When Business Become Political.

Is it political?  Or is it good business?

In making political stands, companies and organizations can send powerful signals to their employees, customers, and potential customers.

Businesses Attack Arizona's Anti-Gay Bill

Better Non-Profit Boards.

Better Non-Profit Boards

Does your board avoid these "five worst mistakes" outlined in this commentary by Bill Schubart?

Schubart: Ethics and Governance

Sustainability means...

Investing in your community:

Cause or Effect?

Is it cause or effect?

Interesting report that shows sustainability breeds innovation. We've also seen evidence that attraction to innovation leads to sustainable practices.

How sustainability leadership drives innovation